MIAMI — Trey Murphy III was aware that his mother and chef had ventured out to celebrate New Year’s Eve in downtown New Orleans. When he learned of the tragedy that unfolded on Bourbon Street, concern for their well-being rushed over him. A sigh of relief escaped him once he confirmed they were safe. However, he noted, “But there were a lot of people that didn’t hear that sigh of relief today.”
On Wednesday, the New Orleans Pelicans faced off against the Miami Heat, where they unfortunately fell short with a 119-108 loss. Despite the game’s outcome, the players’ thoughts were heavily occupied with the events back in New Orleans. They, along with the residents of the city, now embark on a painful journey of mourning after at least 15 lives were lost due to a tragic attack involving an Army veteran who drove a pickup truck emblazoned with the Islamic State group’s flag into a crowd celebrating the new year in the iconic French Quarter.
“I’m devastated,” expressed Pelicans coach Willie Green. He received a text from his father early that morning, the first part extending New Year’s wishes, while the latter half offered prayers for their city. This was his initial notification of the terrifying events impacting his home.
The Pelicans play their home games just about a mile from the scene of the disaster, close to where the attack not only claimed lives but also injured over 30 others. “A senseless act of violence,” Green stated, as he reflected on the current state of the world, pointing out how people should feel secure in everyday places like schools and churches. “It’s devastating,” he added, expressing sympathy for the families who are left to cope with the aftermath.
The team is set to compete at home on Friday against Washington, but the attack has already disrupted local events, leading to a postponement of the Sugar Bowl, a college football playoff matchup between Notre Dame and Georgia, originally scheduled for Wednesday night and now taking place Thursday afternoon.
Heat coach Erik Spoelstra shared his dismay over the news that reverberated through the team, bringing a solemn pause to their activities when it was displayed on the multiple screens in the weight room. “It’s terrifying. It’s horrific,” he remarked, highlighting the fear that accompanies uncertainty. “You pray for all the families and everybody that’s experiencing loss,” Spoelstra reflected.
In a gesture of solidarity, the Heat observed a moment of silence ahead of their game for the victims in New Orleans, alongside an already planned tribute for the late President Jimmy Carter, who had passed away earlier that week.
On the Pelicans’ broadcast, commentators Joel Meyers and Antonio Daniels conveyed their sorrow for the events that transpired in their city. “Bourbon Street represents joy and laughter, a place where people come together for celebrations,” Daniels said. He emphasized how this tragic incident stands in stark contrast, lamenting how an act of violence aimed to fracture the spirit of the city. “My heart hurts for this city,” he expressed.
Despite the overwhelming emotions surrounding the incident, Murphy managed to focus for the game and delivered an impressive performance by scoring 34 points. Although his team fell behind early on, they fought diligently throughout the remainder of the game.
The Pelicans have endured a challenging season, suffering losses in 29 out of their last 32 games while trying to navigate injuries. Nonetheless, the weight of Wednesday’s matchup was secondary for Murphy. “It is a true shame,” he said. “Now there are families that have to deal with this tragedy. It just doesn’t make sense. Such things shouldn’t happen.” He emphasized the importance of safety during moments meant for joy, such as celebrating New Year’s on Bourbon Street, where one shouldn’t fear losing a loved one.
